What is Kewpie Mayonnaise?

If you're a condiment enthusiast, Kewpie Mayonnaise may have already crossed your path. If not, and you're curious about the differences between American mayo and its Japanese counterpart, you’re in the right place. Keep reading to discover what Kewpie mayo is, how it differs from American mayo, where to buy it, what can replace it, and how to make your own version at home.

What is Kewpie Mayonnaise?

Kewpie mayonnaise is a popular Japanese brand that’s been making waves both in Asia and the West. It’s ultra-creamy, perfectly balancing sweet and tangy flavors. With a rich, thick texture, Kewpie mayo stands out with a unique taste that you can truly feel on your tongue. It’s a versatile condiment, great as a sandwich spread, dip, or a base for sauces like those used with okonomiyaki street food. We suggest using Kewpie mayo wherever you’d normally reach for traditional American mayo.

Japanese Mayonnaise vs American Mayonnaise

Japanese mayonnaise and American mayonnaise differ in taste, texture, and appearance, and it all comes down to their ingredients. While American mayo uses whole eggs, Japanese mayo only uses egg yolks, resulting in a richer flavor, thicker texture, and a deeper yellow color. Japanese mayo also contains MSG, unlike its American counterpart. While American mayo is made with distilled vinegar, Japanese mayo uses rice vinegar, contributing to its slightly sweeter flavor. Nutritionally, they are similar, though Japanese mayo tends to have more sodium and saturated fat. Japanese mayo is usually sold in squeeze bottles, making it easier to apply, although some American brands also offer squeeze bottles, while others still come in jars.

Where to Find Kewpie Mayonnaise

There are two types of Kewpie mayonnaise: the original version from Japan and the American-made variant, which is produced in California and contains no MSG. Both versions are widely available in U.S. grocery stores like Walmart and Costco, and you can also find Kewpie mayonnaise in international or Asian grocery markets.

Kewpie Mayonnaise Substitute

If you're in need of a Kewpie mayo substitute, you have a few options: you can create a quick version using American mayonnaise, like Hellmann's, or you can whip up a homemade, MSG-free Kewpie-style mayonnaise from scratch.

• To make a shortcut Kewpie mayonnaise substitute, combine 1 cup mayonnaise with two tablespoons of rice vinegar and one tablespoon of granulated sugar, either using a whisk or a blender.
• To make Kewpie-style mayonnaise from scratch, mix 1/2 cup mayonnaise, 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt, 3/4 teaspoon white sugar, 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard, 1 teaspoon of freshly squeezed lemon juice, and 2 teaspoons of rice vinegar in a small bowl.